Phil Demmel Opens Up About Kerry King and His Sunglasses

Phil Demmel recently disclosed the unexpected reason behind Kerry King’s trademark sunglasses. In a conversation with Fran Strine, the former Machine Head guitarist shed light on the Slayer legend’s personality.

According to Demmel, King’s habit of always wearing shades is rooted in an unlikely trait. “He wouldn’t want everybody to know that, but he always wears shades because he’s got like super kind eyes, you know?” Demmel revealed.

Demmel also recounted how he ended up joining Kerry King’s band after leaving Machine Head.

“Before I quit Machine Head, it was the summer before. They were on the Slayer’s on the farewell tour comes through San Jose and I think it’s the last night of that run. I asked Kerry like ‘Hey, so what are you doing after this is done?’ He’s like, ‘I’m gonna keep going and it’s probably going to involve Paul and maybe Gary. I don’t know yet.’ And I said, ‘Oh okay,’” Demmel explained.

Months later, after officially parting ways with Machine Head, that conversation took on new meaning.

“I’m still in Machine at this point and so fast forward three months later I announce that I’m quitting. And on the same day, I got a text from Kerry saying, ‘That’s why you asked me what I was doing after.’ And that’s when I threw my name in his hat of like, ‘Yeah, dude anything that you’re doing, I would like to have the chance to be in.’ And so he kept, ‘Yeah, we’ll see what’s happening.’ And he kind of hinted as time was going on,” he continued.

His shift from Machine Head to working with King wasn’t just a straightforward transition—it involved extraordinary circumstances that highlighted his determination and skill.

In 2018, after leaving Machine Head due to personal issues, Demmel was suddenly called upon to fill in for Slayer when Gary Holt left mid-tour for a family emergency. As Guitar World reported, this was a pivotal opportunity. Demmel managed to learn Slayer’s full 19-song set in just two days before heading to Europe to perform—a feat noted by Ultimate Guitar as proof of his technical mastery and ability to perform under immense pressure.

This swift adaptability impressed Kerry King and ultimately paved the way for Demmel to become the second guitarist in King’s new band. Revolver Magazine pointed out that the collaboration energized Demmel creatively. Their chemistry became clear in the studio when Demmel laid down about 10 solos and transition licks for King’s From Hell I Rise album in only three hours. This rapid-fire output showcased the natural musical connection that had formed between the two metal veterans.